Marcquel Bethel, 39, a much-loved member of The Tribune's sales department, died early Monday after suffering a stroke.

Despite the many medical challenges he faced, Marcquel was an eternal optimist, always affable and eager for what the future would bring.
It is hard to forget the unbridled joy he had at the birth of his son Dylan. He made fatherhood seem like the best thing in the world and was extremely proud of his first-born, who is the very image of his father.
Marcquel loved his childhood neigbourhood of The Valley. He always remained faithful to the area despite having the means and opportunity to live elsewhere.
He was generous with himself and his emotions; one never had to question  ...

See also: A Tribune staff member says 'goodbye'
We stood at the top of the steps watching a young man, breathing heavily and gripping the bannister, slowly heave his 533 lb frame up the front stairs at The Tribune. We wondered how long his heart could take such punishment. On reaching the landing, he pulled his 5'7' frame up tall, bowed, and with an impish smile, announced: "Good afternoon, madam, I am your new staff member, Marcquel Bethel."

Marcquel's rotund frame filled the small space at the top of the stairs. The year was . . .

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